Friendship cities' sports and cultural exchanges help strengthen China-Vietnam ties

In recent years, Dongxing city in Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region of South China and Mong Cai in Vietnam have been using their close proximity to strengthen their friendship and mutual understanding through various cultural and sports exchanges.

Separated only by a river, the two cities, which established a sister city relationship in 2015, have capitalized on their unique location to foster cross-border sports and cultural exchanges. This has helped to build a closer China-Vietnam community with a shared future.

Last month, 171 athletes from China and Vietnam participated in a three-day cross-border sports and cultural exchange event, emphasizing camaraderie and competition. In July, Dongxing hosted the fifth annual China-Vietnam Martial Arts Competition, attracting over 300 martial artists from 20 teams across Guangxi and Vietnam.

This year commemorates the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and Vietnam, along with the China-Vietnam Year of Cultural Exchange. Since being designated as international friendship cities in 2015, Dongxing and Mong Cai have jointly organized a range of events such as the China-Vietnam Trade and Tourism Expo, cross-border cycling, and singing activities along the border river, strengthening cooperation in culture, tourism, and trade.

Everyday interactions have long been a part of life, with Vietnamese friends taking part in traditional Chinese festivals in Dongxing, like the Spring Festival and Mid-Autumn Festival.

Dongxing Mayor Li Jian emphasized the importance of sports as a bridge, advocating for long-term stability and comprehensive cooperation to build a brighter future together. This approach also strengthens the traditional friendship and strategic partnership between the two nations.